Music

Sacrilegious beer commercial pretends John Lennon and 2Pac faked their deaths

by Mark Teo

For fans of their music, the deaths of 2Pac, John Lennon, and Kurt Cobain are tragedies: One was gunned down as the result of gang-related beef. The other was gunned down in New York City. And Cobain, arguably his generation’s most influential songwriter, committed suicide after dealing with crippling depression.

Of course, the ideas that all three faked their deaths exist—but they’re mostly shared by the conspiracy-minded bunch. And by beer company Bavaria, apparently, who are using them to hawk a new, fruit-flavoured Radler beer.

The company recently released a spoof video detailing the stars drinking beer in dead rock-star paradise: Marilyn Monroe applies sunscreen to 2Pac’s Thug Life tattoo; Lennon and Cobain, aged with spare tires, recline on the beach; and when a boat passes by their reclusive island, a portly Elvis is forced to hide behind a palm tree.

Is it funny? Sure. But then again, Lennon—ever the politically-minded pacifist—might not exactly approve of using his likeness used to sell fruity beer. So, what do you think: Is this hilarious or sacrilege? Judge for yourself. Thanks to the AV Club for the tip on this video.